2 Arrested Over Nkalagu–Abakaliki Power Line Towers Vandalism—TCN

The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has confirmed the arrest of two suspects in connection with the vandalism of Towers T15, T16, and T17 along the Nkalagu–Abakaliki 132kV Single Circuit Transmission Line.

TCN general manager, Public Affairs, Ndidi Mbah, in a statement on Tuesday, said the arrests were made on May 9, 2026.

Mbah noted that the suspects, identified as Obinna Nweke and Monday Ezike, both indigenes of the Ezza Umuhuali Community in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, were apprehended by local youths and members of a vigilante group acting on a tip-off.

It disclosed further that preliminary investigations at the scene established that structural tower members valued at billions of naira were systematically removed from the affected towers and allegedly sold to illicit scrap metal dealers. Further investigations revealed that the criminal activity had been ongoing from January 2026 until the suspects’ apprehension.

The suspects were subsequently handed over to the Nigerian Police Force at Ishielu Police Station, Ntezi, and have since been formally charged before the Ebonyi State High Court. While the two principal suspects are currently in custody, investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend remaining accomplices believed to still be at large.

TCN strongly condemns the act, describing it as economic sabotage, which not only constitutes a grievous assault on national infrastructure but also undermines the stability of electricity supply to Ebonyi State and surrounding communities.

“We commend the vigilance and swift action of the Ezza Umuhuali youths and vigilante group in bringing these suspects to justice,” TCN said, urging host communities across the country to remain alert and to promptly report any suspicious activity around high-voltage transmission installations to the nearest security agency or TCN office.